Ultimate North and Central Vietnam 8 days

Tour Code: GD4U3RXG0BRJ 

5 (113 Reviews)
Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hoi An - Hue
From: $497 4-star hotels
5
(113 reviews)
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Duration

8 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi – Halong Bay – Hoi An – Hue

Should you seek a shift in scenery away from the hustle and bustle of urban life, consider indulging in our carefully crafted 8-day Tour of Ultimate North and Central Vietnam. This immersive experience offers glimpses of breathtaking landscapes, showcasing several UNESCO heritage sites, while providing insights into the diverse local cultures spanning from the northern regions to the heart of Vietnam’s central territories.

For solo travelers or young adults yearning to explore Vietnam, entrust the navigation to our seasoned guide and relish an unforgettable journey!

Included/Excluded

  • * Throughout the tour, guests will be accommodated exclusively in 4- and 5-star hotels.
  • * Accommodation based on twin or double sharing room
  • * All transfers and road transport in modern, air-conditioned vehicles if specified in the program
  • * Meals as mentioned in the program. B-Breakfast, Br-Brunch, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
  • * Your tour guide is a professional, fully trained employee of VTP Travel
  • * Entrance fees if specified in the program
  • * Airfares, Cruise, Train, Sleeper bus if specified in the program.
  • * Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
  • * Meals not mentioned in the program
  • * Single Supplement. Early check-in and late check-out. Hotel/Room upgrade
  • * Drinks, personal expenses and any services not clearly mentioned in the program
  • * Surcharge for the festive seasons
  • * Applicable Government Taxes and other service charges.
  • * The tour cost does not include POE charges and passport charges.
  • * Porterage Facility

Hotel List:
To view the list and detailed information about the hotels used in the tour

Itinerary

<span> Day 1</span> Hanoi Arrival

In the morning, our tour guide will be at your service to greet you upon arrival at Noi Bai airport, ensuring a smooth transfer to the city center for your check-in.

By 14:00, your hotel room will be prepared for occupancy (do reach out to the travel consultant if an early check-in is desired). The remainder of the day in Hanoi is yours to explore and enjoy.

During this free period, you have the option to participate in various tours such as the Hanoi Street Food Tour, a Half-Day Hanoi Cooking Class, or cultural performances like the Water Puppet Show or My Village Show.

Meals are not included, and your accommodation will be provided at a hotel in Hanoi.

<span> Day 2</span> Hanoi Half-day City tour

During either the morning or afternoon, depending on availability, guests can partake in a half-day city tour.

This excursion commences with a visit to the Temple of Literature, renowned as Vietnam's inaugural university. The itinerary then proceeds to the One Pillar Pagoda and the esteemed Mausoleum of President Ho Chi Minh.

Following these insightful tours, participants will have the opportunity to marvel at the stunning West Lake, adorned by the Tran Quoc Buddhist Pagoda, a venerable construction dating back to the 6th century during the Ly Dynasty.

The tour culminates with a delectable Vietnamese meal served at an authentic restaurant, allowing guests leisure time for the remainder of the day.

<span> Day 3</span> Halong Bay - Overnight Cruise

In the morning following breakfast, guests will be chauffeured via shuttle bus to Halong Bay, recognized as one of the world's seven natural wonders.

Upon arrival, guests will check in to board the cruise vessel and relish a delectable seafood lunch.

The afternoon and evening present an array of engaging activities, including cave explorations, kayaking, and more. After these adventures, return to the cruise to unwind, savor dinner, and spend the night on board.

Meals provided encompass breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with accommodation arranged on an overnight cruise in Halong Bay. Please note, our tour guide will not accompany guests during the cruise. Instead, fluent English-speaking crew members will be available to assist and guide throughout the journey.

<span> Day 4</span> Halong Bay - Hanoi - Hue

In the morning, guests can opt for Tai Chi sessions or simply unwind on the cruise, soaking in the splendid sunrise amidst the limestone karsts. Following this, lunch will be served as the cruise voyages back to the mainland. Subsequently, guests will head to the airport to catch a flight bound for Hue.

Upon arrival at Phu Bai airport, designated drivers will transport guests to their hotel for check-in.

The afternoon and evening afford guests leisure time until nightfall to explore or relax as they please.

<span> Day 5</span> Hue City Tour - Hoi An

In the morning, embark on a Hue city tour, relishing the picturesque vistas of mountains and verdant hills along the route. A boat excursion awaits to Thien Mu Pagoda, an illustrious and enduring architectural marvel of worship within Vietnam.

Explore Dong Ba Market, the largest market in Hue, teeming with an array of local traditional delicacies. Journey through the remnants of Hue Palace, including the Imperial Citadel, enclosed within the city's citadel walls.

As the afternoon sets in, drivers will escort you to your hotel in Hoi An.

Upon arrival, complete your check-in procedures at the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.

<span> Day 6</span> Hoi An - My Son Holly Land

In the morning, your tour guide will collect you from your hotel for a transfer to the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO-recognized World Cultural Heritage site. This Hindu temple, abandoned and partly in ruins, holds captivating historical significance from the Champa Kingdom. Following this exploration, proceed to the Sa Huynh Champa Culture Museum in Tra Kieu to delve deeper into the history.

Return to your hotel for a lunch break.

As the afternoon transitions to evening, your driver will accompany you to Da Nang city for check-in.

Indulge in a delightful dinner featuring traditional local cuisine.

Overnight accommodation is arranged at a hotel in Da Nang.

<span> Day 7</span> Ba Na Hills Day Trip

In the morning, following breakfast, transportation will be arranged for your journey to Ba Na Hills. Upon arrival, proceed to check in at the Suoi Mo Cable Car Station, subsequently traversing to the Marseille Station.

Embark on an exploration of the famed Golden Hand Bridge, a highlight of Ba Na Hills, recognized for its resemblance to scenes from "Game of Thrones" and "The Lords of the Rings". Continue your visit with a stroll through Le Jardin D’Amour (the Flower Garden of Love), a serene locale, followed by a stop at the Linh Ung Pagoda and the intriguing Debay Wine Cellar.

Savor a Vietnamese buffet lunch offering more than 70 traditional cuisines.

As the afternoon unfolds, return via the Cable Car Station to the Gateway, preparing for the journey back to your respective hotels.

In the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Da Nang City.

<span> Day 8</span> Da Nang Departure

Check out from your hotel and proceed to Da Nang airport to catch your flight to the next destination.

Accommodation: Not applicable

Durations

5 - 8 days

Languages

English

Regional Tours

Vietnam

For more information or to book this tour, please click the request button below:



Tour's Location

Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hoi An - Hue
Getting Around Hanoi 2025 - 🚶‍♀️ Getting Around Hanoi 2025 – The Complete Traveler’s Guide to Exploring Vietnam’s Capital Hanoi — a city of contrasts where ancient pagodas meet buzzing scooters — might look chaotic at first glance. Yet beneath that lively traffic lies a rhythm that every traveler eventually learns to love. ❤️ Whether you’re wandering through the maze-like Old Quarter, taking a peaceful stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, or venturing out toward West Lake and beyond, getting around Hanoi can be both exciting and surprisingly convenient — once you know how. In this updated 2025 Hanoi Transport Guide, I’ll break down all the best (and most fun) ways to explore the city — from walking and cyclo rides to the brand-new metro and eco-friendly electric cars. 🚶‍♂️🛺🚆 🚶 On Foot – The Best Way to Soak in the Soul of Hanoi Walking remains the most rewarding way to explore Hanoi’s historic heart. 👣 The central districts — especially the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem, and the French Quarter — are best enjoyed slowly. Every street corner reveals something special: a temple tucked behind a tea stall, locals playing chess, or the aroma of freshly brewed egg coffee drifting from a café. ☕ Of course, crossing the street can feel like a mini-adventure (a “dance” with thousands of motorbikes), but once you master the art of moving confidently and steadily, it’s oddly satisfying. 💡 Travel Tip: Avoid rush hour (7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m.) if you want a calmer walking experience. 🛺 By Cyclo – A Vintage Ride Through History A cyclo ride is one of those iconic Hanoi experiences you shouldn’t miss! 🚲 These three-wheeled pedal-powered taxis now mostly serve tourists, offering a leisurely way to tour the Old Quarter or loop around Hoan Kiem Lake. 💰 Price: Around 150,000đ per person (or 200,000đ for two) for a 1-hour ride. ⏰ Tip: Ask your hotel to arrange a reliable driver — it’s safer and avoids haggling. ⚠️ Note: Some streets in central Hanoi ban cyclos, so expect a few detours or being dropped off nearby instead of right at your destination. It’s slow, nostalgic, and perfect for taking in the rhythm of Hanoi life without the noise of engines. 🛵 By Xe Ôm (Motorbike Taxi) – The Local Way to Move Motorbike taxis, or xe ôm, are still the lifeblood of Hanoi’s transport network. You’ll find them waiting at nearly every intersection, ready to whisk you away through narrow streets. But today, most locals (and savvy travelers) prefer GrabBike or Gojek apps. 📱 These app-based rides are cheaper, safer, and hassle-free, as you can see the price before booking — no language barrier or haggling required. 🚖 Average fares: Within the city center: ~20,000đ To West Lake or Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: ~40,000đ 🪖 Tip: Drivers must carry an extra helmet for passengers — don’t hop on without one! Riding on the back of a motorbike through Hanoi’s rush-hour chaos? It’s part thrill, part heart-race — and 100% unforgettable. 🏍️💨 🚗 By Taxi or Ride-Hailing App – Comfort with a View If motorbikes feel too wild, taxis offer comfort and safety. Reputable companies like Mai Linh Taxi (024 3822 2666), Hanoi Taxi (024 3853 5353), and CP Taxi (024 3826 2626) are reliable and use meters. A short ride around the city center costs about 40,000đ, while trips to the suburbs can reach 80,000đ. 💡 Important: The meter shows prices in Vietnamese dong — not dollars! So “20.00” means 20,000đ, not $20. For an even smoother experience, download Grab or Gojek — both offer cars and motorbikes at fixed prices, tracked via GPS. 🚙 🚋 By Metro – The Future of Urban Hanoi After years of anticipation, Hanoi’s first-ever metro system officially opened in late 2021 — and it’s expanding fast in 2025! 🚆 The Line 2A (Cat Linh – Ha Dong) currently connects neighborhoods west of the city center. While not yet ideal for tourists, it’s a milestone in Hanoi’s push for cleaner, faster transport. Several new routes, including Line 3 (Nhon – Hanoi Station), are expected to open soon, linking more central and tourist-friendly areas. 🕒 Operating hours: 5:30 a.m. – 10:30 p.m. 💰 Fares: From 8,000đ depending on distance 🌱 Eco tip: The metro helps reduce air pollution — take a ride and support sustainable travel! 🚌 By Bus – Affordable and Expanding Hanoi’s city buses have come a long way! Modern, air-conditioned, and affordable, they’re ideal for budget travelers and locals alike. The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line runs from Kim Ma to Yen Nghia, though it’s not yet very tourist-friendly. Regular buses, however, connect the entire city and beyond. 🕕 Operating hours: 5 a.m. – 9 p.m. 💰 Fares: Flat rate around 7,000–10,000đ 🚍 Popular routes: #3 → Gia Lam – Giap Bat (via Hoan Kiem & Train Station) #34 → Gia Lam – My Dinh (via Opera House & Hai Ba Trung Street) 🪙 Pay the conductor directly on the bus, and keep small change handy. 🚴 By Bicycle – For the Adventurous Souls If you’ve got nerves of steel (and good balance!), cycling is a fun way to explore quieter parts of the city. 🚴‍♀️ While the Old Quarter traffic can be intimidating, cycling around West Lake (Ho Tay) is a peaceful alternative. The 17-km loop offers serene views, lotus ponds, and plenty of lakeside cafés to stop for a cold drink. 🌅 You can rent bikes from The Hanoi Bicycle Collective (31 Nhat Chieu) — open Tuesday to Sunday, 9 a.m.–7 p.m. — offering both city bikes and mountain bikes. 💡 Tip: Always use designated parking spots (called gửi xe máy or gửi xe đạp) where attendants collect a small fee. 🏍️ By Motorbike Rental – For True Freedom Seekers Renting a motorbike in Hanoi isn’t for everyone — but for confident riders, it’s an incredible way to explore the city’s outskirts or even start a road trip to places like Ninh Binh or Mai Chau. 💰 Rates: Around 100,000đ/day for a 110cc Honda Wave 🏍️...Arrival & Departure Guide to Hanoi - ✈️ Arrival & Departure Guide to Hanoi 2025 Your Ultimate Travel Handbook for Getting In and Out of Vietnam’s Capital Hanoi — Vietnam’s enchanting capital — is not only a cultural treasure trove of history, lakes, and street food but also one of the country’s most important transportation hubs. Whether you’re flying in from abroad, catching a train south to Hue, or heading north to Ha Giang’s misty mountains, this city connects you effortlessly to every corner of Vietnam. 🌏 In 2025, Hanoi continues to expand its travel infrastructure, making it easier than ever for visitors to arrive, explore, and depart — smoothly and safely. Here’s your updated, traveler-tested guide on how to get in and out of Hanoi by ✈️ plane, 🚆 train, and 🚌 bus. ✈️ By Plane – Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport 📍 Location: 25 km north of Hanoi city center🌐 Website: noibaiairport.vn Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) remains the main gateway to northern Vietnam. Opened in 2015, the international terminal (T2) is modern, clean, and efficient — complete with lounges, cafés, and sleeping pods for transit passengers. Domestic flights depart from the adjacent T1 terminal, which has been fully upgraded in recent years to handle Vietnam’s growing air traffic. 🕒 Operating hours: 24/7💤 Airport Hotel & Sleeping Pods: Travelers needing rest between flights can book hourly sleeping pods or a room at the Hanoi Airport Hotel located right inside the terminal complex. 🚍 Getting From the Airport to the City Getting to downtown Hanoi is quick and affordable, with several transportation options: #86 Smart Bus (6:00 AM – 11:00 PM): The best budget-friendly choice! It runs every 30 minutes between Noi Bai Airport and Hanoi Railway Station, stopping conveniently at Long Bien Bus Station and the north end of Hoan Kiem Lake — perfect if your hotel is in the Old Quarter. The buses are air-conditioned and have extra luggage space. Shuttle Minibuses: Operate 24/7 and usually depart once full. They take around 45 minutes to reach downtown, dropping passengers near the Vietnam Airlines office (just south of Hoan Kiem Lake). Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps: Reliable brands like Mai Linh, Vinasun, or G7 Taxi are trustworthy. To avoid scams, use Grab or Be apps for fixed prices. Better yet, book a hotel pick-up service — it’s only slightly more expensive and adds peace of mind. 💡 Travel Tip: If you arrive late at night, pre-book a transfer or private driver. Some low-cost taxis still overcharge tourists after midnight. 🛫 Popular Domestic Flight Routes (2025 Update) Vietnam’s major airlines — Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and Vietjet Air — offer frequent flights from Hanoi to most major cities. Destination Frequency Duration Ho Chi Minh City 1–4 hourly 2h Da Nang Hourly 1h 15m Hue 6 daily 1h Nha Trang 6 daily 1h 40m Phu Quoc 7 daily 2h Da Lat 6 daily 1h 40m Quy Nhon 7 daily 1h 15m Vinh 3 daily 45m 🧭 Pro Tip: Book early during national holidays like Tet (Vietnamese New Year) — flight prices can skyrocket and sell out weeks in advance. 🚆 By Train – Classic Travel with a Vietnamese Twist 📍 Location: 120 Le Duan, Dong Da District🌐 Website: dsvn.vn For travelers who prefer scenic journeys, Hanoi Railway Station is your ticket to exploring Vietnam the old-fashioned way. Built during the French colonial period, it remains a major gateway for north–south trains and routes heading to Lao Cai (for Sapa), Haiphong, and Hue. 🚉 Pro Tip: Hanoi’s railway station has two entrances: Le Duan side: For trains to the south (Hue, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City) and international routes (to China). Tran Quy Cap side: For trains heading north and east (Lao Cai, Haiphong). In 2025, electronic ticketing and QR code boarding are now standard. You can easily book and pay online via platforms like baolau.com or vexere.com. 🕒 Train Timetable Highlights Destination Frequency Duration Sapa (Lao Cai) 3 daily 7–9h Hue 6 daily 11–16h Da Nang 6 daily 14–20h Nha Trang 4 daily 26–28h Ho Chi Minh City 5 daily 30–40h Haiphong 4 daily 2h 30m Ninh Binh 5 daily 2h 20m 🚆 Tip: For a comfortable night’s journey, choose a soft sleeper cabin. Trains like SE1, SE3, and SE19 are among the cleanest and most punctual. 🚌 By Bus – Affordable and Adventurous Hanoi’s growing network of expressways and modern coaches makes traveling by bus faster and more comfortable than ever. The city has four major long-distance bus stations, each serving different directions. 🏙️ Main Bus Terminals: Giap Bat (South): Routes to Hue, Haiphong, and southern provinces. Gia Lam (East): For Haiphong, Lang Son, and northeast destinations. My Dinh (West): The biggest terminal, serving Ha Giang, Dien Bien, and Lao Cai. Yen Nghia (Southwest): For Hoa Binh and Son La. 🚌 Sample Routes (2025 Update) Departure Station Destination Frequency Duration My Dinh Ha Giang 14 daily 6h My Dinh Cao Bang 10 daily 7h Giap Bat Hue 5 daily 13–14h Gia Lam Lang Son Hourly 3h My Dinh Mai Chau 6 daily 3h 30m My Dinh Ba Be 3 daily 4h 40m 🧭 Online booking tip: Visit vexere.com — Vietnam’s biggest bus ticket platform — to compare prices, check reviews, and pay by card. 🚐 Open-Tour & Minibus Options If you’re heading to popular tourist destinations like Sapa, Ninh Binh, or Cat Ba Island, open-tour and minibus services are the most flexible. Many companies offer door-to-door hotel pick-up and drop-off. Reputable operators in 2025 include The Sinh Tourist, Hoang Long, and Green Bus — known for punctuality and clean vehicles. 🕶️ Top Picks: Hanoi to Ninh Binh: 1h 30m Hanoi to Cat Ba: 3h 30m (includes ferry) Hanoi to Sapa: 6h via expressway 🌅 Final Travel Tips for 2025 💡 1. Book Online Early: Domestic travel demand in Vietnam is booming — especially around holidays.💡 2. Keep Some Cash Handy: Many rural stations and smaller bus offices still prefer cash payments.💡 3. Download Grab App: For easy rides between transport hubs and hotels.💡 4. Check Weather...

Reviews

5/5
Excellent
(113 Reviews)
Excellent
110
Very Good
1
Average
2
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0
Terrible
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113 reviews on this Tour - Showing 61 to 75
Hue Vietnam
Kiley
04/04/2025

Excellent!

Myanmar tours by VTP Travel gave me experiences I’ll never forget. The staff was courteous and professional, ensuring every part of the trip was enjoyable and safe.
Hue Vietnam
Krista
03/04/2025

Excellent!

VTP Travel provided an exceptional Vietnam tour experience. Every hotel was carefully selected, the food was delicious, and the English-speaking guides were informative and welcoming. Their dedication to customer satisfaction was evident in their quick responses and attention to every detail, making my trip relaxing and memorable.
Hue Vietnam
Sue
02/04/2025

Excellent!

I was initially hesitant about booking an online tour, but VTP Travel exceeded all my expectations on my Cambodia trip. Their team was professional and responsive, adjusting the itinerary to fit my needs. The hotels were clean and comfortable, and the English-speaking guides were excellent, making sure every stop was informative and enjoyable.
Hue Vietnam
Latoya
02/04/2025

Excellent!

My Laos trip with VTP Travel was wonderful. The accommodations were authentic and cozy, perfectly complementing the cultural itinerary. The guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate, making every moment memorable and educational.
Hue Vietnam
Arlene
31/03/2025

Excellent!

My Myanmar tour with VTP Travel was truly enriching. The hotels combined comfort with authentic local character. The itinerary included a perfect balance of sightseeing and cultural experiences. The English-speaking guides were professional, friendly, and deeply knowledgeable, ensuring a smooth and fascinating journey.
Hue Vietnam
Sheila
31/03/2025

Excellent!

VTP Travel made my Cambodia trip simple and enjoyable. The team was responsive, answering all questions clearly. The hotels were clean and welcoming, and the English-speaking guides enriched the experience with their knowledge of history and culture, making the trip truly special.
Hue Vietnam
Joanna
29/03/2025

Excellent!

Vietnam with VTP Travel was a wonderful adventure. The hotels were comfortable and well located near key attractions. The food was delicious and authentic. The English-speaking guides were friendly and informative, offering cultural insights that made every site fascinating.
Hue Vietnam
Nina
25/03/2025

Excellent!

I was skeptical about booking online, but VTP Travel completely changed my mind. Their responsiveness and professionalism were exceptional. Our Cambodia tour was thoughtfully organized, and the guide’s English was flawless. We felt truly taken care of throughout the trip.
Hue Vietnam
Abby
24/03/2025

Excellent!

I was initially uncertain about choosing VTP Travel for my Cambodia tour but was soon reassured by their professionalism. Their prompt communication, detailed itinerary, and selection of comfortable hotels made the trip stress-free. The guides were fluent in English, friendly, and provided rich cultural insights that enhanced the entire experience.
Hue Vietnam
Paul
24/03/2025

Excellent!

I was surprised by how rich and rewarding our Myanmar tour turned out to be. Thanks to VTP Travel, we were able to explore hidden gems and interact with locals. The hotels were well-chosen, with great hospitality. Our English-speaking guide was deeply knowledgeable, and his stories brought every monument and market to life in a meaningful way.
Hue Vietnam
Douglas
23/03/2025

Excellent!

The Laos tour with VTP Travel was one of the best I’ve experienced. The hotels were authentic and comfortable, and the guides were friendly and extremely knowledgeable, always eager to share stories and answer questions that enriched my understanding of Laos’s culture and traditions.
Hue Vietnam
Paige
23/03/2025

Excellent!

My trip to Vietnam with VTP Travel was flawlessly organized from start to finish. The hotels were comfortable and well-located, the local cuisine was delicious, and the English-speaking guides were incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. They answered all my questions promptly and made sure every part of the itinerary was tailored to my interests and pace.
Hue Vietnam
Lucy
22/03/2025

Excellent!

We traveled to Laos on a short break and were amazed at how much we experienced in just a few days. VTP Travel managed every detail, and the guide was fluent, friendly, and full of local wisdom. The blend of nature, culture, and cuisine was absolutely perfect.
Hue Vietnam
Mona
22/03/2025

Excellent!

VTP Travel exceeded my expectations during my Cambodia visit. Their team was efficient, communicative, and flexible in accommodating my requests. The hotels were clean, welcoming, and ideally located. Our English-speaking guides were engaging and knowledgeable, offering wonderful insights that made every site memorable and enriching.
Hue Vietnam
James
21/03/2025

Excellent!

Booking my Cambodia tour with VTP Travel was a wonderful decision. The team was highly responsive and tailored the itinerary exactly to my interests. The hotels were cozy and conveniently located, while the guides spoke fluent English and were passionate about sharing Cambodia’s culture. The experience was immersive, educational, and truly memorable.

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From: $497
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